United States President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s October 27 parliamentary election, offering support to the veteran leader as he faces a closely contested battle for another term.
Trump announced his endorsement on Sunday through his Truth Social platform, describing Netanyahu, popularly known as Bibi, as a strong and courageous leader who had remained resilient despite intense opposition.
“Bibi Netanyahu has been Strong, Brave, and Brilliant in the face of tremendous opposition, including that coming from even Israel, itself,” Trump wrote.
The US president also praised Netanyahu’s role in their partnership, particularly their joint military campaign against Iran, which began in February and has contributed to instability across the Middle East and disruption to global energy supplies.
Trump warned that Israel could lose a crucial partner if voters chose another leader, arguing that Washington might be left to confront the Iranian threat without the same level of cooperation from Jerusalem.
Netanyahu quickly welcomed the endorsement, thanking Trump for his support and highlighting their joint efforts.
“Together we will complete the mission!” the Israeli prime minister wrote on X.
Netanyahu Faces Tough Election Battle
The endorsement comes as Netanyahu seeks a fresh mandate in an election that is expected to test public confidence in his leadership.
Opposition figures have blamed him for security failures surrounding the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, while his government has faced criticism over its handling of the conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon and Iran.
Netanyahu’s main challenger is opposition politician Gadi Eisenkot, a former military chief who has called for political change and accused the prime minister of bearing responsibility for the failures preceding the 2023 attack.
Opinion polls suggest neither Netanyahu’s bloc nor the opposition camp is assured of securing the 61 seats needed to command a majority in Israel’s 120-member parliament.
Eisenkot responded to Trump’s endorsement by stressing that the decision rests with Israeli voters.
He said he admired the US president but maintained that Israel’s democratic process should determine who leads the country.
Will Trump’s Support Make a Difference?
Trump’s backing could help Netanyahu reinforce his image as a leader with strong ties to Washington, an important consideration as Israel faces mounting diplomatic and security challenges.
However, the endorsement comes after months of uncertainty over Trump’s position, with disagreements between the two leaders emerging over aspects of their Iran strategy and efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza.
The Israeli election, scheduled for October 27, will be the country’s first national vote since the October 2023 Hamas attack.
With the race still tight, it remains uncertain whether Trump’s intervention will significantly influence voters or alter the balance of power in Israel’s next parliament.
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